Chapter 6 – Final Polished Version
The morning air in Seoul was crisp, but Jun had already worked up a light sweat hauling his brewing kit across town. He returned to the same spot as yesterday—just outside the park, a few meters from Bean & Bite.
The small bench, the open sidewalk, the curious passersby—it all felt familiar now. Not comfortable, but manageable.
He set down his cardboard sign:
FREE FRESH COFFEE – NO CATCH
Jun had brewed two cups when a new system alert pinged into view:
[System Sync – Streak Bonus Activated]
2 Days of Public Brewing: +5 XP
[System Notice – Caution Triggered]
Continued public brewing may result in legal complications. Consider formalizing your setup.
Jun squinted. "Legal complications…?"
As if summoned, a voice called out behind him.
"You again."
Jun turned. A different officer this time. Older, taller, with a clipboard in hand.
"We've received a few calls. You serving out here regularly now?"
Jun swallowed. "It's just free coffee. No sales. No money."
"Intent doesn't matter," the officer replied, flipping through his notes. "You're distributing a consumable in a public space. That counts. You need a vendor's permit."
Jun blinked—but just then, another alert chimed softly in his periphery:
[New Task Unlocked – Brewing Territory]
Secure Right to Brew in Public
Reward: Temporary Brewing Pass (3 Days) + 150 XP
Task Requirements:
– Brew 3 cups for government workers or city staff
– Clean up your serving area after each session
– Pass informal inspection from local official
Note: Government personnel possess elevated visibility influence in local enforcement patterns.
Jun glanced back up, trying not to sigh. "Why government workers?"
The system offered nothing more.
He let out a breath. "...That's not creepy at all."
The officer arched a brow but didn't press. Instead, he looked around, then pointed casually. "Try the old market lane. There's less foot traffic, but fewer complaints. One of the cafés there runs a shared license system—might be worth asking about."
Jun nodded, making a mental note. "Thanks."
"Look, I get it," the man added, tone softening. "You're not hurting anyone. But next time, someone might press harder. This spot's not going to stay invisible."
Jun bowed slightly. "Understood."
As the officer walked away, Jun exhaled deeply.
[System Update – Task Accepted: Brewing Territory]
Legitimacy path initiated. Visibility recalibrated.
Temporary permit route available.
He looked down at his cup, then at the passersby.
"No more hiding behind the pour. Time to step forward—and stand still."
The grind was getting noticed. And with it, came rules.